Sea Kayaks in the Surf

It is time to leave the controlled bays and enter the ocean. Learn to launch and land through the surf with control, safety, and finesse.

Sea Kayaking instruction in the surf zone on the Mendocino Coast of Northern California.

Any paddler looking for adventure is going to launch and land through the surf sooner or later. Leave your anxiety behind, and learn to control your kayak the right way – right side up. This clinic is geared toward sea kayaks, fishing kayaks, and sit-on-top kayaks.

Why: Learning to launch and land in surf will increase paddling possibilities (locations) and will develop comfort and skills in moving water. It is recommended to take this class more than once as continued practice will increase your progression and skill in surfing, playing in currents and tidal races, and rock gardening.

This course is a prerequisite for Sea Kayaks in the Surf II, Into the Sea, Rock Gardening, and Advanced Coastal Exploration.

Who: Paddlers interested in coastal exploration, rock gardening, surfing and tidal races. Prerequisites: Essential Kayaking Skills 1, Essential Rescue and Recovery 1, and/or instructor’s approval.


What: A 5 hour class with on land and on water instruction and application.

Paddlers will learn and apply concepts and skills involved in:

Surf dynamics

Etiquette

Hazards

How to swim

Bracing

Launching and Landing 

Hovering

Paddle signals

Proper gear and gear storage

When: Check calendar for dates.

How: Call to reserve your spot or to schedule a private session

How much: 

$110/person includes class, kayak, paddle, life jacket, spray skirt, helmet.

Wetsuit Rentals are $10

Where: Mendocino Coast - location to be determined 24 hours prior to course based on surf conditions

Gear:

Necessary:

*Kayak

*Paddle

*Lifejacket

*Helmet

*Wetsuit or drysuit for immersion in 52ish degree water

Footwear

*Spray skirt for decked boats

 Recommended:

Water bottle

Light Snack

Sunscreen

Spare Clothes

Towel

 *Available for rental.